On Running Man, singer Kim Jong Kook revealed health issues, sparking concern among the members. The news drew more attention as it came while he is happily enjoying his newlywed life.
Kim Jong Kook’s altered appearance was caught during the opening of the SBS variety show Running Man aired on the 15th, surprising the members. He appeared with Haha’s support, and seeing this, Ji Seok Jin said, “Jong Kook isn’t feeling well.”
Kim Jong Kook described his condition, saying, “I have a strange disease I’ve never heard of before,” explaining the problem lies with his cochlea. Although he did not disclose the exact diagnosis, he mentioned symptoms affecting his sense of balance, which caused concern. Ji Seok Jin added, “It seems like there’s a slight problem with the sense of balance.”
Yoo Jae Suk also mentioned Kim Jong Kook’s condition, saying, “Even though we told him to rest because he’s not feeling well, he wouldn’t,” conveying Kim Jong Kook’s sense of responsibility. Kim Jong Kook then lightened the mood with a smile, saying, “When I told my mother I wasn’t feeling well, she said, ‘But you should still go to filming, right?’”
Fortunately, the condition is reported to be temporary. Kim Jong Kook reassured the members and viewers by saying, “They say I’ll be okay in about a week,” but many expressed hopes for his quick recovery. His dedication and responsibility impressively shone through despite his poor condition.
Meanwhile, the episode featured short track national team athletes who are key figures of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, drawing attention. The “Short Track Queen” Choi Min Jeong, who holds the record for the most medals in South Korea’s Olympic history, joined along with No Do Hee, Lee Jun Seo, Lee Jeong Min, and Shin Dong Min, completing a “golden lineup.”
The race was held under the concept “Is Speed Also Energy Recharge in Spring?” It featured a spring-scented mukbang healing course designed to replenish the athletes’ energy after their international success. The members and athletes continued a fun race together, providing entertainment.